block heater started smocking

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Jan 28, 2007 | 09:59 PM

zmanz1

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Freshman User

Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 48

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block heater started smocking

pluged in my 98 E350 7.3 as i do every night about 10 minutes later the garage circuit breaker blow. the heater plug and extension cord caught fire and melted together.did this ever happen to anyone

Jan 29, 2007 | 06:13 AM

Cuda_jim

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Joined: Oct 2003

Posts: 5,903

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From: MICHIGAN

I'm sure that it has happened b4. Block heaters are rated @ 1200-1500 watts. Corrosion @ the plug or a small wire cord (14/3) that is too long will cause resistance that in turn causes heat. I use a 12/3 x 20 foot cord and keep the 3 prongs on the block heater plug clean and covered when not in use.

Jan 29, 2007 | 01:47 PM

Brians97F250Crew

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Joined: Nov 2005

Posts: 726

Likes: 1

think I remember seeing someone on the forums 99-up that had one burn to the ground. Can't remember if it was the block heater or the cruise switch thing.